The Parramatta Eels have their sights on back-to-back victories for the first time this season as they prepare to face the Bulldogs in a King's Birthday clash.
The return of captain Clint Gutherson and halfback Mitchell Moses provided the platform for the Eels to snap a five-game losing streak with a 34-22 victory over the Sharks on Thursday night.
Parramatta enjoyed an extended break heading into Monday's game but hope to keep the momentum rolling at Accor Stadium.
The Bulldogs, however, will prove a stern test and are riding high on the back of a 32-2 win over the Knights on Friday night.
It was Canterbury's first victory on the road this season and came despite the absence of their Origin stars.
The win came at a cost, however, with Josh Addo-Carr suffering a hamstring strain and facing 8-10 weeks on the sidelines.
Both sides had their stars get through unscathed from Wednesday night's Origin opener with their players all backing up for this match.
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Team News
Bulldogs: A few late changes an hour from kick-off, Bailey Hayward moving to start at lock with Kurt Mann shifting to the bench. A five-day turnaround from Origin One means captain Stephen Crichton will back up, while five-eighth Matt Burton is fine to go as well. Lipoi Hopoi is set for another run off the bench following his debut in Round 13.
Eels: An hour before kick-off, the Eels have made a number of late changes with Maika Sivo ruled out of the match with a mild hamstring strain. Daejarn Asi joins the team in his place. Makahesi Makatoa has dropped out of the 17, with Joey Lussick coming onto the bench. Junior Paulo has also moved to the bench, with Wiremu Greig to start. Blaize Talagi was earlier named to replace Bailey Simonsson (knee) in the backline, with the rookie named at centre and Sean Russell moving one position out to the wing. J’maine Hopgood will back up for the Eels and will start.
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Stat Attack
- The Bulldogs are the only team who remain undefeated in home games in 2024.
- The Eels have won eight of their past nine games against the Bulldogs.
- Bulldogs back-rower Jacob Preston has scored four tries in his past three games.
- Eels fullback Clint Gutherson will make his 200th NRL appearance.
- The Bulldogs are chasing three straight wins for the first time since 2019.
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Stats supplied by David Middleton, League Information Services, author of